Photo: Reuters File
Real Madrid star Kylian Mbappe is set to start for the Spanish champions in their La Liga match against Celta Vigo on Saturday, despite reports suggesting he is under investigation for an alleged rape incident during a visit to Sweden. The 25-year-old French striker, who was in Stockholm during a break granted by Madrid, has dismissed the allegations as 'fake news,' and his lawyer has announced plans to take legal action for defamation. A Swedish prosecutor has confirmed the initiation of an investigation, though Mbappe's name has not been officially mentioned.
Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti has included Mbappe in the attacking lineup for the Celta Vigo match, alongside Vinicius Junior. Ancelotti commented on Friday that Mbappe appeared to be a 'different player' following the international break, having focused on his fitness after recovering from an injury. The coach noted that Mbappe seemed unaffected by the ongoing investigation reports.
'At this moment, these are just speculations. I see him working diligently every day; he seems happy and content, and not at all affected by the reports,' Ancelotti stated during a press conference. 'He is eager to continue contributing to the team.'
Mbappe's transfer to Madrid this summer marked the culmination of a dream move after seven years with French champions PSG. The striker had scored five goals in his first seven La Liga appearances before sustaining a thigh injury. Mbappe's recovery was quicker than anticipated, but he was not selected for France's recent Nations League matches against Belgium and Israel.
Currently second in La Liga, Madrid trails Barcelona by three points, who are set to host Sevilla on Sunday.
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